
Two Michigan Beer Gardens Competing for Title of Best in U.S.
What's better than enjoying adult beverages outside in an awesome environment? I'd argue, not much.
Two Michigan beer gardens are getting national attention as they're in the running for best in the country in a USA Today 10best readers' poll.
👇BELOW: Think You Know Michigan's Favorite Beer?👇
Last year was was voted No. 2 - can it nab the top spot this year?
Northern Michigan is one of my very favorite spots in the world. So I have visited this beer garden and I can attest that it is awesome!
Hop Lot in Sutton's Bay is competing for the best beer garden in the U.S. in USA Today and 10best's poll.
Hop Lot is located along M-22, one of the most scenic highways in America. Nestled in the woods, the four-seasons beer garden features campfires, picnic tables, outdoor games, and more. In the winter, twelve igloos are heated with ionized furnaces.
On tap you'll find traditional craft brews and the food menu includes appetizers like soft pretzels and wings, plus tacos, nachos, soups, and sandwiches.
Here's USA Today's praise for Hop Lot:
Embracing its Northern Michigan roots, Hop Lot Brewing’s beer garden invites guests to warm up around the campfire or relax at picnic tables while enjoying their brews. In winter, you can even reserve your own igloo! Hop Lot was established in 2015 as a family-friendly brewery and offers a tap list of around a dozen traditional ales.
You can vote for Hop Lot once per day through Feb. 24 at noon here!
READ MORE: Discover Michigan's No. 1 Steakhouse
Hop Lot is just a hop and a skip away from Traverse City - which is also being recognized for beer. TC is competing for best small town beer scene in the nation.

The other Michigan beer garden up for best in the U.S. is Watermark Brewing Co. in Stevensville!
Open since 2016, Watermark Brewing Company has outdoor games, fire pits, and a rotating cast of food trucks, in addition to its award-winning beer.
Special events include the Polar Plunge to benefit the Special Olympics, karaoke, magic shows, live music, and even Guinness Book of World Records attempts.
USA Today says of Watermark Brewing Co.,
Nestled in the heart of Stevensville, Michigan, Watermark Brewing Co. has been a community cornerstone since its founding in 2016. Built on a passion for creating exceptional craft beer and unforgettable experiences, Watermark features a sprawling beer garden designed for relaxation and connection. The outdoor space boasts lush greenery, comfortable seating, fire pits, and open-air views perfect for gatherings of all sizes. Inside, the modern yet welcoming taproom serves as the hub for an ever-evolving lineup of meticulously crafted beers. Focused on fostering local connections, Watermark Brewing Co. partners with area food trucks and encourages guests to bring their own bites to enjoy alongside their beverages.
Vote for Watermark Brewing Co. here!
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Gallery Credit: Angela Underwood
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